A Hardin County man was arrested yesterday after leading police on a high-speed pursuit. According to officials, a Kentucky State Police trooper observed a vehicle make an improper turn on Bacon Creek Road shortly after midnight on Sunday. When the trooper activated his lights, the vehicle fled, allegedly reaching speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. When attempting to make a turn, control of the vehicle was lost and the car came to a rest. The driver, Prentice Wheeler, exited the vehicle and fled on foot into the woodline. Troopers were able to apprehend Wheeler a short time after. Wheeler was arrested and charged with fleeing and evading police, wanton endangerment, and reckless driving among other charges. He was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.
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Cooperation between two local law enforcement agencies resulted in the arrest of two men suspected in an Iowa homicide. On Friday, the Elizabethtown Police Department was contacted by Radcliff Police, who were seeking assistance in serving two felony arrest warrants. The suspects, Elijah and Milton McAbee, were wanted for a 2019 Iowa homicide. Milton McAbee was taken into custody at a residence in Radcliff while Elijah was apprehended in Elizabethtown. Officer Chris Denham says the arrests were made without incident. Both men were lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.
In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,960 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 273 were newly confirmed, which marks the highest number of new cases thus far. In addition, it was reported that 1,122 people have recovered from the virus, however there were also four new deaths reported on Sunday, bringing the state’s total to 148. Governor Beshear praised Kentucky’s heroes, and all the forms they come in including frontline heroes such as grocery store employees and first responders, everyday heroes, including those who are staying healthy at home, and health care heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way everyday in order to help the public. Governor Beshear also reported details about announced benchmarks that the Commonwealth must meet in order to start safely reopening the state’s economy while keeping Kentuckians safe. These seven benchmarks reflect White House criteria and include 14 days of decreasing cases, increased testing capability and contact tracing, personal protective equipment availability, ability to protect at risk populations, ability to social distance, preparedness for possible future spike, and status of vaccine and treatment.
The BBQ, Blues, and Bikes Festival in Elizabethtown has been cancelled for this year due to COVID-19. According to Executive Director of the Heritage Council Stacy Reynolds says the Council attempted to find a reschedule date for the event, but the lack of open dates paired with the current uncertainties made it necessary to cancel the event, citing that public safety is of the utmost importance. Refunds will be issued on all vendors and ride registrations. Sponsorships will also be fully refunded or be given the option to sponsor next year’s event.
The list of cancellations due to COVID-19 continues to grow as the Forecastle Festival, which was scheduled to have its 18th edition this year, has been called off. In a statement from event staff, disappointment was expressed, but it was also noted that the safety and health of fans, artists, staff, and community was a higher priority. Tickets will be automatically refunded at point of purchase, and purchasers will receive an e-mail with details on timing and processing. The event promises to be back even stronger in 2021.